§ Mr. Amessasked the Secretary of State for Energy if he will make a statement on the current status of hydroelectric power research by his Department.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerMy Department's small-scale hydro energy research programme is primarily aimed at supporting innovative devices which have the prospect of achieving the cost reductions necessary for the technology to become commercially attractive in the United Kingdom energy market, and at continuing to explore the potential for small-scale hydro energy in the United Kingdom. A study has recently been commissioned of the potential of small-scale hydro resource in England and Northern Ireland, and a review of the potential in the United Kingdom generally. The cost of the work is £156,000 and it will be completed in 18 months' time.